Ukraine Shock Les Bleues In Group C

Ukraine went from first day despair to second day joy at the U20 European Championship Women by throwing Group C wide open with a superb 75-68 success against France.

Having been demolished by Turkey, a rejuvenated Ukraine posted an excellent display to make amends as Alina Iagupova and Anna Kiriyenko combined for 42 points to put the French to the sword.

It was a 24-16 second quarter which handed Ukraine the push they needed to go on and win the game while France also contributed to their own downfall with far too many unforced turnovers which will haunt head coach Gregory Halin.

Once Ukraine put some daylight between themselves and their opponent, they never looked like relinquishing control - despite the best efforts of France who threatened a revival late in the fourth quarter but the damage had already been done.

The result sets up a wonderful final day of first round action with the French knowing a victory against Turkey could yet see them crowned group winners but a loss could even see them facing the shock of a relegation battle if the other game in the group doesn't go in their favour.